Journey to Bethlehem – 2023 Musical Nativity Story
Journey to Bethlehem is a new musical feature film that retells the birth of Jesus. Keep reading for more information about the film as well as a review by a Catholic mother to four boys.
Many thanks to AFFIRM Films, Inc. for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.
Synopsis of the Film
A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility.
A young man torn between love and honor.
A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown.
This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves classic Christmas melodies with humor, faith, and new pop songs in a retelling of the greatest story ever told—the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus.
A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it. JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM arrived in theaters on November 10, 2023, and your family can now stream it on Netflix.
Resources to Use with the Film
Sony Pictures has made discussion guides and coloring pages to go with the film. The discussion guides are written for families, adults/teens and children.
Grab the free resources to use with your family or in a church setting.
Watch the Trailer
Thoughts on Journey to Bethlehem
Have you ever gone into a movie or theatrical production with someone else’s negative thoughts floating about your head?
That is how I began my viewing of this film to write a review.
Someone had started sharing the reasons they do not recommend the film to Christian parents. They had a list of ‘infractions’ from the film.
Over the course of two days, I had several friends sharing the person’s post saying to not take the family to the film. All without having seen the film themselves.
I’ll admit to wondering if I would find my time wasted by watching the screener copy I was sent.
After finishing the film, I would say it was not a complete waste of my time.
Not a Literal Retelling of the Nativity Story
I’ll start off by sharing something the producers put at the start of the closing credits:
“While taking some creative license, the filmmakers strived to remain true to the greatest story ever told.”
Personally, I think they should have led with this for those people who would not assume a mainstream production would have a generous application of artistic license.
When you remove any expectation of a literal or completely historically accurate approach to the story, you are left with a musical production that has a ton of energy with some fabulous performances.
Positive Things That Stood Out to Me
I’ll admit that most of the male actors really nailed things.
Antonio Banderas plays an incredible Herod. His character is egotistical and only takes action on things that will cement his rule. He also flips between trusting his son, Antipater, to giving him a glance indicating he fears his son wants the crown for himself.
“Good to be King” may be one of my favorite songs from this film.
While Banderas may be the BIG name for the film, other actors do a great job in their roles.
Joseph’s dream that spurs him to accept Mary as his wife brings a great visual to what may have happened. He is given a vision of those that threaten Mary and her unborn son all while multiple facets of him sing “The Ultimate Deception.”
Much of the comic relief in the film comes from the 3 Wise Men. Their song “Three Wise Guys” has a lot of jabs throughout. The one that stood out to me is when they sing about ‘the best essential oils money can buy’ while spritzing King Herod with Frankenscence.
The women do a good job as well. The opening song of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by Daniela Riveri is both beautiful and haunting.
I also appreciated the costumes and set design that bring richness to the depiction. During the song “Mary’s Getting Married”, the group dances with so many colors had me thinking of Bollywood films.
As for me, I do enjoy a well-executed musical with dance numbers.
Items that Have Some People Questioning
The biggest ‘complaint’ I can see if how they depict the familiar characters as having more modern-influenced thoughts. This is an attempt to humanize them for a modern audience.
When you first meet Mary, she comes across as almost petulant and whiny as a teen. She questions her parents about the betrothal to Joseph, stating her dream is to be a teacher and marry someone she loves.
In that day and age, I seriously doubt any young girl would question her parents in such a manner.
Another moment that stuck out for me was when the Angel Gabriel came to Mary. Before entering her room, he sounds uncertain of how he’ll announce the news.
Yet again, I doubt an angel of God would sound so wishy-washy about things.
Curious about the inspiration behind the film and its tie to Christianity? Watch this interview with the director.
Two Quotes from the Film
As I watched the film, I took copious notes of what was happening along with some of my thoughts. Included in those notes were a few quotes by characters in the movie that jumped out at me.
“Sometimes God’s plans are even bigger than we can imagine,” said Anne, Mary’s Mother, as she comforts Mary before the betrothal ceremony.
“Faith is trusting what you know in your heart to be true,” said Mary while courageously speaking to Antipater when he finds the family in the stable.
Final Takeaway
If you are looking for a film that accurately depicts the Nativity story, then this is not for you.
If you enjoy musicals and want to have a unique Christmas film to watch this season, then grab your tickets and enjoy the show.
Win 2 Tickets to See the Film
One lucky reader will win 2 tickets to see the film in theaters.
Entries from adults (ages 18+) who live in the United States are eligible.